Elevate Your Feast: The Ultimate Collection of Easy & Delicious Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes (With Abundant Gluten-Free Options!)
Welcome to the definitive guide for an unforgettable plant-based Thanksgiving!
Thanksgiving is almost upon us, and it’s time to plan a feast that truly celebrates abundance, flavor, and compassion! Forget bland Tofurkey; this year, we’re diving deep into a world of vibrant, wholesome, and utterly delicious vegan Thanksgiving recipes. Whether you’re a lifelong vegan, a curious vegetarian, a flexitarian, or simply hosting guests with diverse dietary preferences, this comprehensive roundup is designed to ensure your holiday table is brimming with incredible real food options. We’ve meticulously gathered the best plant-based culinary creations from across the web, covering everything from delectable appetizers and hearty main courses to delightful side dishes and show-stopping desserts, plus refreshing drinks. Get ready to indulge 100% in a Thanksgiving experience filled with joy and exceptional food. Look for “(GF)” beside recipe titles to easily identify our many gluten-free options!
Thanksgiving Starters & Essential Side Dishes
Kick off your Thanksgiving celebration with an array of irresistible appetizers and robust side dishes that are guaranteed to impress even the most traditional palates. These plant-based creations prove that holiday classics can be just as comforting and flavorful, without any animal products. Many of these incredible recipes are brought to you by the talented team at Jessica in the Kitchen, a trusted source for delicious plant-based creations.
Gluten Free Cornbread Muffins (GF) by Jessica in the Kitchen
These light and fluffy cornbread muffins offer a delightful texture and a hint of sweetness, making them the perfect accompaniment to any holiday meal. Being gluten-free and vegan, they cater to a wide range of dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Stuffed Mushrooms with Coconut Bacon (GF) by Jessica in the Kitchen
Elegantly savory, these stuffed mushrooms are packed with rich flavors, highlighted by crispy, smoky coconut bacon. They make for a fantastic appetizer that’s both hearty and surprisingly light.
Vegan Green Bean Casserole (GF) by Food Faith Fitness
A classic holiday staple reinvented! This healthy vegan green bean casserole delivers all the creamy, comforting flavors you love, made lighter and without dairy or gluten, ensuring everyone can enjoy a taste of tradition.
Skinny Sweet Potato Casserole (GF) by Jessica in the Kitchen
Indulge in this guilt-free sweet potato casserole, featuring a luscious maple-pecan topping. It’s perfectly sweetened and incredibly satisfying, a must-have side that won’t weigh you down.
White Bean Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes (GF) by Cotter Crunch
Creamy, dreamy mashed potatoes made effortlessly in a slow cooker, with the added goodness of white beans for extra protein and fiber. A truly comforting and convenient side for your holiday spread.
Maple Garlic Roasted Carrots with Carrot Greens Chimichurri (GF) by Jessica in the Kitchen
Sweet maple and savory garlic transform simple carrots into an exquisite side dish. The vibrant carrot greens chimichurri adds a fresh, zesty counterpoint that elevates this vegetable offering.
Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Onions and Apples (GF) by Jessica in the Kitchen
A harmonious blend of flavors and textures, these maple-roasted Brussels sprouts, onions, and apples are caramelized to perfection, offering a sweet and savory sensation that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Lemony Green Beans (GF) by Kalyn’s Kitchen
Brighten up your plate with these simple yet elegant lemony green beans. Their crisp texture and tangy flavor provide a refreshing contrast to richer holiday dishes.
Baked Pumpkin Mac and Cheese by Jessica in the Kitchen
A comforting twist on a beloved classic, this baked pumpkin mac and cheese features a creamy, savory pumpkin sauce that’s utterly decadent and perfect for autumn gatherings.
Turmeric Roasted Chickpea Carrot Salad with Apple Cider Tahini Dressing (GF) by Cotter Crunch
This vibrant salad is bursting with anti-inflammatory turmeric, hearty chickpeas, and sweet roasted carrots. Drizzled with an apple cider tahini dressing, it’s a nutritious and flavorful addition to your meal.
Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese (GF) by Jessica in the Kitchen
Another creamy, plant-based mac and cheese option, this version uses the natural sweetness and smooth texture of butternut squash to create a rich and satisfying dish that’s surprisingly gluten-free.
Onion Gravy by Kitchen Treaty
No Thanksgiving meal is complete without a rich, savory gravy. This vegetarian onion gravy is deeply flavorful and perfect for pouring over mashed potatoes, roasts, or any of your favorite sides.
Kale Cabbage Slaw (GF) by Jessica in the Kitchen
A fresh and crunchy slaw featuring nutrient-dense kale and cabbage. This healthy side provides a fantastic texture contrast and a refreshing flavor profile that balances the richness of other holiday dishes.
Kale & Brussels Sprout Salad by Tasting Page
Combine the best of autumnal greens in this hearty and healthy kale and Brussels sprout salad. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate more fresh vegetables into your holiday spread.
Pistachio-Crusted Vegan Cheese Ball by Jessica in the KitchenAn elegant and flavorful appetizer, this pistachio-crusted vegan cheese ball is creamy on the inside and crunchy on the outside. It’s perfect for spreading on crackers and delighting your guests.
Cranberry Sauce (GF) by Jessica in the Kitchen
Homemade cranberry sauce is incomparably better than canned. This simple, fresh recipe brings a tart and sweet burst of flavor that’s essential for any Thanksgiving plate.
Cremini Mushroom Dressing by Vegan in the Freezer
This savory cremini mushroom dressing is rich, earthy, and incredibly moist. It’s a wonderful alternative to traditional stuffing and will be a highlight on your holiday table.
Vegan Garlic Mashed Potatoes with Caramelised Onions (GF) by Jessica in the Kitchen
Fluffy, garlicky mashed potatoes crowned with sweet caramelized onions make for an unbelievably delicious and comforting side dish. This version is entirely vegan and gluten-free, proving that classic comfort food can be enjoyed by everyone.
Vegan Creamy Pumpkin Soup (GF) by Jessica in the Kitchen
Warm up your guests with this velvety smooth and wonderfully spiced creamy pumpkin soup. It’s a perfect autumnal starter that captures the essence of the season in every spoonful.
Spectacular Vegan Main Dishes for Thanksgiving
The main course is often the centerpiece of Thanksgiving, and these vegan options are designed to stand out. From hearty loaves to comforting pot pies, these recipes are rich in flavor and texture, ensuring that no one misses out on the traditional feast experience. Get ready for show-stopping dishes that are both nourishing and deeply satisfying.
Vegan Meatloaf (Chickpeas & Lentils) (GF) by Jessica in the Kitchen
This robust vegan meatloaf, made with hearty chickpeas and lentils, is packed with umami flavor and has a wonderfully satisfying texture. It’s a fantastic gluten-free centerpiece that pairs perfectly with gravy.
Vegan Pot Pies (GF) by Jessica in the Kitchen
Individual vegan pot pies offer a cozy and comforting main dish, filled with tender vegetables and a creamy, savory sauce, all topped with a flaky, gluten-free crust. They’re perfect for personal portions!
Veggie Pot Pies with Crispy Potatoes (GF) by Natural Girl Modern World
Another delightful pot pie option, this version features a medley of vegetables and is crowned with a crispy potato topping, adding a wonderful textural element to this comforting dish.
Vegan Schnitzel by Elephantastic Vegan
Crispy and flavorful, this vegan schnitzel makes for a satisfying main course that’s both fun and familiar. Serve it with a squeeze of lemon and your favorite sides for a delightful meal.
Creamy Potato and Veggie Casserole by Veggies Don’t Bite
A luscious and rich casserole filled with tender potatoes and mixed vegetables in a creamy sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly autumn evening and makes an excellent main.
Herb-Crusted Peppercorn Lentil-Nut Pâté by Lunchbox Bunch
More than just a pâté, this hearty loaf is herb-crusted and rich with peppercorn flavor. It serves beautifully as a substantial main dish or a luxurious side.
Pumpkin Vegetable Bake by VNutrition
Embrace the flavors of autumn with this savory pumpkin vegetable bake. It’s a wholesome and comforting dish that celebrates seasonal produce and makes for a lovely main.
Cauliflower Lentil Loaf by Strength and Sunshine
This tender and flavorful cauliflower lentil loaf is a fantastic plant-based alternative to traditional meatloaf. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for a festive holiday meal.
Vegan Mushroom and Buckwheat Shepherd’s Pie by Yumsome
A hearty and wholesome take on the classic shepherd’s pie, this vegan version features savory mushrooms and buckwheat topped with a creamy mashed potato layer. It’s rich, comforting, and incredibly satisfying.
Savory Pumpkin Tart by Vegan Family Recipes
This elegant savory pumpkin tart offers a sophisticated main dish option. Its rich, spiced pumpkin filling nestled in a flaky crust is perfect for a festive occasion.
Vegan Pumpkin Sage Risotto by Veganosity
Creamy, comforting, and infused with the aromatic flavors of pumpkin and sage, this risotto is an exquisite main course that feels gourmet yet is surprisingly approachable for a special holiday meal.
Mushroom & Lentil Stuffed Butternut Squash by Win Win Food
Roasted butternut squash halves are generously filled with a savory mixture of mushrooms and lentils, creating a stunning and wholesome main dish that’s perfect for fall.
Pumpkin and Lentil Shepherd’s Pie by It Doesn’t Taste Like Chicken
This hearty shepherd’s pie combines the sweet earthiness of pumpkin with the richness of lentils, all beneath a fluffy mashed potato topping. It’s a comforting and robust main course that’s sure to please.
Decadent Vegan Desserts for Thanksgiving
No Thanksgiving feast is complete without a selection of tantalizing desserts. These vegan treats prove that you don’t need dairy or eggs to create truly indulgent and memorable sweet endings. From classic pies to innovative parfaits, prepare to satisfy every sweet tooth at your table.
Vegan Pumpkin Pie (GF) by Jessica in the Kitchen
The quintessential Thanksgiving dessert, this vegan pumpkin pie is perfectly spiced, wonderfully creamy, and completely gluten-free. It’s a dreamy classic that everyone can enjoy.
Swedish Apple Pie by Texanerin Baking
This Swedish apple pie offers a delightful variation on the traditional apple pie, often featuring a crumbly topping and a tender, spiced apple filling. A comforting and satisfying dessert for any occasion.
Gluten Free Vegan Pie Crust by Jessica in the Kitchen
Master the art of pie-making with this reliable gluten-free and vegan pie crust recipe. It’s flaky, tender, and the perfect foundation for any sweet or savory pie creation.
Paleo Pecan Bars (GF) by Food Faith Fitness
These paleo pecan bars are a delightful and rich treat, offering all the satisfying sweetness and nutty crunch of pecan pie in a convenient bar form. They’re also gluten-free, making them accessible to more guests.
Cinnamon Baked Pears (GF) by Jessica in the Kitchen
Simple yet elegant, these cinnamon-baked pears are tender, spiced, and naturally sweet. They offer a lighter dessert option that feels wholesome and satisfying after a big meal.
Mini Pecan Pie Tarts by Vegan in the Freezer
These adorable mini pecan pie tarts are perfect for individual servings, offering all the rich, nutty goodness of pecan pie in a bite-sized format that’s easy to enjoy.
Vegan Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread (GF) by Jessica in the Kitchen
Moist, flavorful, and studded with chocolate chips, this vegan pumpkin bread is a comforting treat that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack. The gluten-free version makes it even more versatile.
Pumpkin Pie Parfait with Coconut Whipped Cream (GF) by Natural Girl Modern World
Layered with creamy pumpkin goodness and fluffy coconut whipped cream, this parfait is a lighter, yet equally indulgent, way to enjoy the classic flavors of pumpkin pie. It’s an elegant gluten-free dessert option.
Coconut Whipped Cream (2-Ingredients) (GF) by Jessica in the Kitchen
This incredibly simple two-ingredient coconut whipped cream is a game-changer for vegan desserts. It’s light, airy, and the perfect dairy-free topping for pies, parfaits, and everything in between.
Refreshing Vegan Drinks for Your Holiday Table
Complete your festive spread with a refreshing beverage that complements the rich flavors of your Thanksgiving meal. This elegant sangria is perfect for celebrating and making your holiday gathering even more special.
Stone Fruit Sangria by Jessica in the Kitchen
This vibrant stone fruit sangria is a beautiful and flavorful addition to any holiday table. Filled with fresh fruit and refreshing notes, it’s a delightful drink to share with loved ones.
We hope this curated collection inspires you to create the most incredible and memorable vegan Thanksgiving dinner yet! These recipes prove that a plant-based holiday feast can be just as traditional, if not more exciting and delicious, than any other. Planning early ensures a stress-free celebration, so start browsing and get ready for an amazing meal!
If you try any of these incredible Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes, please share your creations! Let me know in the comment section below, or tag me on Instagram with the hashtag #jessicainthekitchen! For more exclusive recipes and behind-the-scenes fun, follow me on Instagram and on Snapchat: jessinkitchen. Happy cooking, and have a truly wonderful Thanksgiving!